In a significant development for the Gulf Coast’s economy, Suzano, the world's largest pulp supplier, has entered into a five-year agreement with Avondale Global Gateway (AGG) that will reestablish regular wood pulp shipments into Louisiana. This move marks the first return of such imports to the state in over three decades, signifying a robust resurgence in the region’s industrial capabilities and logistics infrastructure.
Avondale Global Gateway, strategically located on the Mississippi River in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, has been selected as a terminal for Suzano’s shipments arriving from Brazil. This decision follows an extensive two-year assessment that prioritized logistics efficiency and infrastructure scalability, proving AGG's commitment to becoming a vital hub in Suzano's North American operations. The first vessel is slated to dock at AVG in the initial week of May, setting the stage for continuous shipments of this essential material.
This partnership not only aims to fortify supply chains but also aligns with Suzano’s growth strategy in North America, particularly after the company’s acquisition of multiple mills in Arkansas and North Carolina in 2024. "An efficient and resilient supply chain is critical to our success. Avondale provides the necessary combination of river access, rail connectivity, and port facilities we require," asserts Juliana Vizintim, Operations Executive Manager at Suzano. Validating their mutual commitment, this partnership aims for shared values of collaboration and sustainability, ensuring the long-term benefit for both the local community and the global supply chain.
To facilitate this new operational flow, AGG has invested significantly in upgrading its facilities, totaling over 20 million dollars, which includes enhancements to warehouse space, additional loading docks, and the installation of modern fire safety systems. The improvements were tailored to meet Suzano’s specific operational demands, showcasing AGG’s readiness to support increased activity at the site.
Furthermore, a $13 million expansion to the rail capabilities at Avondale is currently underway, collaborating with Union Pacific to ensure efficient transport of cargo throughout the U.S. The anticipation surrounding this renewed activity has already led to the creation of approximately 50 new full-time positions, a welcome boost for the local labor market.
Adam Anderson, Chairman and CEO of T. Parker Host - AGG's parent company, expressed optimism about this new chapter for Louisiana: “Bringing wood pulp back to Louisiana is a remarkable milestone. It demonstrates our capacity for long-term industrial growth and the endless possibilities that arise when efficient partners and locations align.”
Avondale Global Gateway has been transitioning from its historical roots as a shipyard to a state-of-the-art multimodal logistics hub. Since T. Parker Host acquired the location in 2018, the previously underutilized 275-acre site has undergone steady redevelopment to bring new jobs and support a comprehensive logistics network catering to diverse cargo flows.
As Suzano continues to meet the demand for sustainable, bio-based materials, the partnership with AGG is not just a business agreement; it reflects a blueprint for sustainable industrial expansion in the United States, ultimately pioneering a path toward a greener, more interconnected global economy.
For further details about Avondale Global Gateway, visit
www.avondaleglobalgateway.com and learn more about Suzano's contributions to sustainable practices at
suzano.com.br/en.